“When did you get home?” Blaine asked trying to mask his surprise.

“We got in last night around one.” Ben Anderson answered not looking up from his paper.

Blaine went and fixed himself a cup of coffee, to sip on while he fixed himself breakfast. He was surprised when his father spoke to him again. “What are your plans for today?”

Blaine did not look up from his eggs he was scrambling. “I’m going to go see Kurt, his glee club won Regionals and I promised him we would celebrate.”

“So… you are still going out with that…boy.” His father said curtly.

Blaine stifled a laugh, “Yes, I am.”

Silence reigned while Blaine ate, and his dad continued thumbing through the paper. As Blaine added the dishes he had used to the dishwasher he asked, “Where’s mom?”

“Shopping.” Blaine assumed they were back to one word conversations so he left the room to get ready to travel to Lima. He had just gotten out of the shower when the cell phone rang. He looked at the caller ID and wanted to let it just go to voicemail, but decided it would do no good.

“Hello, Nick what can I help you with?”

“I know you were going to Lima today, can I come with you?” He asked quickly.

“I don’t know, I mean…” But before he could finish Nick was talking again.

“I just really want to meet her again, and if I came with you, I wouldn’t look completely desperate.”

Blaine couldn’t help but laugh at Nick, “Yes, you will, but I am leaving in ten minutes… if you can get here before then, I guess I wouldn’t just leave you here.”

As Nick broke into a chorus of thank you’s and Blaine could hear him scrambling to his car, he warned him, “But I am not babysitting you all day, I am going to Lima to see my boyfriend, my boyfriend I haven’t see properly in almost a week… so it will be up to you to keep yourself entertained.”

It seemed nothing would damper Nick’s excitement though, “Fine, that is great. Thanks I am on my way.”

Blaine finished getting dressed and headed downstairs. He glanced at his watch and noticed that nine minutes had passed since speaking with Nick. He went and grabbed two bottles of water and headed to the door. When he opened it he saw Nick’s car speeding down his street and hurtling to a stop in front of his house. Nick leapt out of the car and ran to Blaine’s panting with a frantic look in his eyes. Seeing Blaine give him a look he panted, “I live like fifteen minutes from here… but I made it.”

Blaine shook his head, “You are hopeless.”

Nick smiled, “Yeah, I guess I am… it reminds me of you right before sectionals.”

Blaine blushed and ordered Nick in the car. Before taking off he sent Kurt a text message.

Kurt was just waking up when he heard his phone go off alerting him to a new message. He stretched before retrieving his phone from the nightstand. He read the message:

Just leaving my house, have a bit of a surprise. Driving, so I can’t answer XX Blaine

Kurt lay in bed for another minute, before rousing Mercedes who had spent the night gossiping. “Cedes, we have two hours before Blaine gets here. Maybe we should get up.”

Mercedes just snuggled in deeper to Kurt’s bed, “No, we have time. How do you ever get up in the morning, your bed is so comfortable.” She moaned.

“Determination to look fabulous at all times,” Kurt laughed. “How about I go downstairs, get up some coffee and breakfast, we eat it up here in bed, then get ready. How does that sound?”

“Like you are the perfect man, I swear if you weren’t gay I would marry you right now.”

Kurt giggled, “We would have the most fabulous babies ever wouldn’t we.”

Kurt went downstairs and fixed them a pot of coffee and vegetable egg white omelets with whole grain toast. Carole and his Dad were already gone for the day and Finn was still asleep upstairs. Kurt loaded the breakfast on a tray and carefully made his way back upstairs.

By the time Kurt heard the doorbell, Mercedes was just putting on the finishing touches to her makeup. Kurt hurried downstairs, excited to really see his boyfriend. He flung the door open ready to hurl himself in Blaine’s arms when he was stopped by the sight of a sheepish boy standing behind Blaine.

“Why did you bring another boy on our date?” Kurt said staring down Blaine.

“You remember Nick? He practically begged me to drive him to Lima. I already told him he is on his own today.” Blaine tried to explain to Kurt.

“Well, come on in, I haven’t taken Mercedes home yet so…”Kurt began but Nick broke out into a huge smile and interrupted him in his excitement.

“Mercedes is here! Really? Can I see her, talk to her?” Nick was almost jumping up and down in his excitement. Kurt laughed thinking this boy really had it bad.

“I don’t know if she is accepting visitors at this time. Let me go upstairs, why don’t you boys sit down in the living room.” Kurt answered trying to sound serious.

“Can’t I come?” Blaine pouted, “Maybe on the way I can get a proper greeting?”

Kurt grabbed Blaine’s hand and started heading up the stairs. He turned around a moment and added to Nick, “The living room is through that door, someone will be with you in a moment.” Giggling he pulled Blaine up to the top of the stairs, where kissed Blaine passionately. When they finally broke apart, Kurt whispered, “I have missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too.” Blaine said, as Kurt lead him into his room.

“Mercedes, Blaine is here,” Kurt called into the bathroom, as Mercedes made her way into the room. “And he brought a friend” he added once he could see her face.
“And who might this ‘friend’ be, white boy?” Mercedes asked, her eyebrows raised.

“Nick Duval.” Blaine muttered.

“Wait, isn’t he one of those boys from last night? Which one was he tall dark and bushy hair, or short white and adorable?” She asked, easily containing her excitement.

“Short, white and adorable.” Kurt cut in before Blaine could answer.

Blaine looked over at Kurt, “You think he’s adorable?”

“Blaine, please not the point, just using Cedes description.”

“Okay, so why is he here?” Mercedes asked.

“He knew I was coming to Lima and wanted a ride, I think he was hoping to see a beautiful diva while in town.”

“You have five minutes to tell me what you know about this guy.” Mercedes said sitting again on Kurt’s bed, ready to listen to about this guy.

“Well, he is a Warbler, one of our Second Tenors. He also plays soccer and is part of the Drama Club. I think his dad is a Doctor and his mom owns a boutique in Westerville. She designs her own clothes, I think. He has an older brother, Elliot and a little sister, Evelyn. He is a nice guy, never one to brag, pretty easy going. I don’t know what else to tell you.”

Mercedes gave him a hard stare, just daring him to lie as she asked him, “And what exactly did you tell him about me?”

Blaine shrank back from the look Mercedes was giving him, “I told him you were a lot of fun, into fashion and a fiercely loyal friend. And I told him if he wanted to learn more about you, he needed to get to know himself.”

“So,” Mercedes began, “You said nothing about my staggering good looks?” Mercedes gave him a smile while primping her hair.

“He’s not blind, Mercedes, he could see that well enough himself. In fact, he wouldn’t quit talking about that the whole way here. He kept going on and on about how gorgeous you are, what a fantastic singer you are, and how much he wants to get to know you. I think he has it bad.” Blaine told her in all honesty.

“Well, I guess I could talk to him.” She said, trying hard not to betray her indifferent fa�ade.

“Blaine, why don’t you go down and get him, I am sure he has suffered enough.” Kurt told him.

As soon as Blaine left the room, Kurt turned to his best friend, “So what is your plan today?”

Mercedes quickly filled him in on the thoughts circling in her head, “I think I may let him show me around Lima, and talk to me. If I like what I hear, I may give him my number. We will have to just wait and see, but I will me telling you everything once he is on the road again with your stud muffin.”

The pair were laughing when Blaine reentered the room followed by a nervous looking Nick. As soon as he walked in he walked towards Mercedes and said in a quiet voice. “Mercedes it is so great to see you again. I had no idea you would be here when I asked Blaine if I could come with him.”

“Is that right?” Mercedes asked with a twinkle in her eye.

“Well, I hoped I could run into you somewhere around Lima.” He amended shyly, “I thought maybe I could buy you some coffee or lunch and we could talk. Get to know each other better.”

With a flirty smile Mercedes then asked, “And how exactly were you going to do this without a car?”

A bright flush crept over Nick’s cheeks, “I didn’t think that far ahead, actually.”

“You can borrow my car if Kurt doesn’t mind driving today.” Blaine offered.

So it was set that the two couples, or rather the couple and the barely know each other pair, split up for the day with plans to meet at Breadstix for dinner if all went well. Kurt and Blaine waved their friends off then climbed into the Navigator.

“So what do you want to do?” Kurt asked buckling his seatbelt.

Blaine thought for a moment, “We could go see, ‘happythankyoumoreplease’ I’ve heard it is really good.”
So the couple went to the movie and enjoyed the feel good message. There was no awkwardness like in their last movie, which added to the pleasure. They went by Whole Foods and picked up lunch and headed to a secluded park for a picnic. As they ate they talked more about the movie.

Kurt sighed, “I want to live in New York one day. Maybe study fashion and audition for shows.”

“I want to go to Julliard.” Blaine smiled, “Study music, audition for shows, maybe sing in some bars.”

“have you ever been to New York,” Kurt asked.

“Once when I was five, I don’t remember much. Only the bustle of the city and how it seemed like all eyes were on me, but no one was watching.” Blaine couldn’t keep the smile away. “I… I want to experience it again… with you.”

“Well I am going in May,” Kurt flirted, “Maybe you could join us there.”

Leaning in closer to Kurt, so that their noses brushed against one another, “I may have to do that.” He gave him one simple kiss, then backed up slightly. “Would it be too much to say that I want to experience all of New York with you?”

“What do you mean?” Kurt asked his heart beat quickening.
“I mean, next year, after we graduate, packing up and moving to The Big Apple, and living our dreams together.” Blaine’s heart felt like it was going to explode, after all they hadn’t been dating that long, but he knew he loved this boy sitting in front of him. He doesn’t know when it really hit him, but he does.

“That sounds…” Kurt hesitates for a moment, making Blaine want to recoil away; almost certain he is going to be rejected. “That sounds… absolutely amazing.” Kurt then leans forward and kisses Blaine pouring his emotions into that little bit of contact. As Kurt pulls back words tumble from his lips before he can stop them, “I love you.”

There is a moment, so small that Kurt can’t even begin to panic yet, before Blaine cups Kurt’s face in his hand, “You took the words right out of my mouth, I love you too, Kurt.” The space is filled again. As they kiss the fluttery feeling spreads all over their bodies. They are two sweet beautiful boys, hopelessly in love with each other, what could be more beautiful than that.

They lay on the blanket they used for their picnic (Kurt always keeps spare blankets in the back of his car for emergencies and apparently now impromptu picnics) alternating kissing and enjoying the physical company of the other, and resting one lying on their head on the others chest making pictures with the clouds. All too soon, the afternoon has worn out and it is time to head to Breadstix.

As the lovebirds make it into the restaurant they see Nick and Mercedes laughing side by side in a booth. They motion to the hostess that they see their friends then make their way over to them.

“Have a good day?” Blaine asks, still with his stupid smile on his face. (He was in love, and Kurt love him back!)

“It has been fun.” Mercedes admitted, “How was your date?”
Kurt, who was restraining his excitement better than Blaine, answered, “Fantastic.”

Soon the conversation turned to Mrs. Duval’s boutique and the kind of clothes she designed. The quartet talked animatedly until the meal was over and it was time for the Dalton Boys to make their way back to Westerville. They split up for their respective goodbyes.

Kurt and Blaine made plans to meet up tomorrow and spent the rest of their time exchanging sweet kisses before they really had to separate for the time being.

As soon as they got into Kurt’s car, he turned to Mercedes. “You have to tell me all about your date, but before you do I have to tell you something REALLY important.” Mercedes gave him a look that told him to continue. “I told Blaine I loved him and he said it back.” Kurt’s face broke out into an even bigger smile, Mercedes squealed.

“Oh, Boo! That is wonderful. I am so happy for you.” She leaned over and pulled him into a hug. “Now my story is going to sound silly though.”

Kurt shook his head at her, “No, no. See now that I have told you this, I can listen fully and we can spend the rest of the night talking about your day. If I would have kept it from you, I would have been so distracted I wouldn’t have listened and when I told you, it would sound like I was trying to… I don’t know, one up you. Now, You have my complete attention. How was it?”

Mercedes smiled, “It was really nice. He was a complete gentleman. We went out for coffee and talked. Did you know, he writes poetry? We talked about everything. He seemed really interested in all that I had to say. Then we went to the movies at the movie grill, we saw Rango. In the middle of the movie he held my hand. Then we walked around the shopping center, talking and window shopping until it was time to meet you.”

“Did he ask for your number?” Kurt asked feeling giddy for Mercedes (okay some was for himself as well)

Her smile grew, “He did… and I gave it to him, along with a kiss on the cheek. I tell you that boy better call me .”
“Don’t forget there was another young lad who was vying for your attention.” Kurt reminded her.

“Oh, I know, but I like Nick, I am not going to play to hard to get. I mean if Luke wants to go to the same trouble, I will give him a chance, I guess. But I am not going to wait around for it.”

Blaine had a similar conversation with Nick on the way home. “I really like her, she is funny and smart. I really think we made a connection.”

“Did you get her number?”

“Yes, when would it be too early to call her?”

“I don’t know, I texted Kurt the night I got his so he would have mine too. You just have to figure it out.” Blaine told him with a shrug.

“And how did that work out for you?” Nick asked.

“We’re in love.” Blaine said simply, then fell silent leaving the two boys to their thoughts.

As Kurt drifted off to sleep that night his last thoughts were of Blaine Anderson, his beautiful hazel eyes, and how much he loved him.

Tuesday Blaine was ready to make his way to Lima again, as he was heading downstairs he was surprised to find his parents waiting for him. His father looked over at him, Blaine couldn’t read his facial expression.

“Where are you off to?” He asked, keeping his eyes on Blaine, not even glancing at his wife.

“I’m going to see Kurt.” Blaine offered simply.
“Again?”

“Yes, Dad. We are both on spring break and we want to see as much of each other as possible.” Blaine told him, knowing his father wouldn’t dare say anything with his mother in the room.

“You are wasting too much gas driving four hours to see this boy.” His father told him, “Have you even looked at the price of gas lately?”

“I am well aware of how much gas it takes to get to Lima…” Blaine began, but was cut off again.

“Do you not care how much money you are costing us?” His father said in a voice that made it clear to Blaine that he was trying to hold back the venom.

“Is money really an issue now?” Blaine asked dumbfounded.
“Of course not honey,” his mother answered, “but why doesn’t Kurt come here?”

“No,” Blaine said in a strong voice, “the last time he saw you, Dad called him…” He took a deep breath trying to reign in his emotions. “Kurt has had to deal with a lot of bullies; I don’t want him to even worry about that here.”

“Blaine, darling, we would not bully him.” His mother tried to console him.

“I’m not worried about you, Mom.” He replied, purposely choosing his words. “I have to go, if I don’t leave now I will be late.” With that Blaine walked out the front door, not even giving his father a second glance. If he would have, he would have seen the anger in his father’s eyes.

That wasn’t the end of the surprises for Blaine, standing next to his car was none other than Luke.

“Anderson.” He greeted smoothly.

“What do you need, Luke?”

“Word has it that you took Nick to meet my woman yesterday.” He said.

“First of all, I don’t think Mercedes is your woman. Secondly, how did you know?” Blaine asked confused.

“Nick told Wes, who told David, who told me. SO why did you take him there?”

Blaine laughed, “He asked, so I drove him to Lima.”

“Will you do the same for me?” Luke asked, conversationally.

“No,” he saw a mixed look of anger and hurt in Luke’s eyes, “I don’t want to have to worry about anyone else, but you can follow me to Lima. Nick was just lucky Mercedes was at Kurt’s house. But she isn’t there anymore so it is up to you to find her, got it?”

“Sure.” Luke said, getting into his car, obviously ready to follow Blaine.

Kurt woke up and busied himself trying to get ready to see Blaine. They hadn’t made any plans beyond spending time together. Kurt daydreamed about their date yesterday. Going over in his mind, every perfect detail. After dressing, he went downstairs and was surprised to see his dad in the kitchen.

“Dad, what are you still doing home?” Kurt asked.

“I had Carl open this morning, I needed to talk to you.” Burt said rubbing his head.

“What’s up dad?”

“I’m gonna need you to work the next couple of days. Mine and Carole’s 6 month anniversary is tomorrow and I wanted to take her to Chicago, it’s a surprise, and I just got confirmed from her boss she would let her off. I need you to keep an eye on the shop for me.” Burt told his son.
“Sure dad…” Kurt sighed. “Would it be alright if Blaine came and helped, this was supposed to be our week to actually spend time together.”

Burt let out a chuckle, “I don’t mind Blaine being at the shop, but don’t you let him near those cars unless he knows what he is doing.”

Kurt smiled at his dad, “I would never let Blaine tarnish the Hummel reputation for quality service.”

Burt hugged his son, “We’ll be leaving tomorrow morning, no parties you hear.”

Kurt nodded and bid his dad farewell.

Blaine pulled up to Kurt’s house and noticed that Luke was still following him. He walked back to his car and leaned into the driver’s side window. “This is as far as I take you.”

“Are you sure she’s not here?” Luke asked sounding exasperated.

“Positive, Kurt told me last night that he took her home. Go sit at the Lima Bean, I know she goes there, or go the mall. This town is not that big, I’m sure you will be able to find her if it means that much to you.”

“Hey, what’s her last name?” Luke asked, hoping he could look her up.

Blaine laughed, “Jones.” He heard Luke curse before he drove away.

Blaine made his way to Kurt’s house and the door opened before he could knock. “Who was that?” Kurt asked as way of greeting.

“Luke, he wanted me to bring him here, but I wanted you all to myself so he followed me. I think he wants his equal chance with Mercedes.” Blaine said before giving Kurt a kiss.

“I should text Cedes and let her know another Dapper Gentleman is on the lookout for her in Lima.” Kurt tried to give a chuckle but it fell short.

“Kurt what’s wrong?” Blaine asked as soon as Kurt had sent his text.

“Nothing, really… oh I have to work the rest of the week for Dad, he’s taking Carole to Chicago. You can still come and hang out, maybe help me in the shop.”

Blaine laughed, “I’m sure I could try, but I may be more of a hindrance than anything.”

Kurt gave him a smile, “I can teach you. I have some extra coveralls you can use. It will be fun.”

They made their way up to Kurt’s room and Blaine looked through the movies trying to pick something to watch. Wanting something fun, he chose ‘Mulan’. Kurt popped it in and they settled on Kurt’s bed to watch the movie. They sat with their backs against the headboard their shoulders lightly brushing against each other holding hands.

When the credits rolled, they made their way downstairs to make lunch. Kurt made Blaine his favorite Turkey and provolone sandwich and made himself a salad. Kurt asked Blaine about Luke, but halfway through the conversation, Kurt’s phone rang. He looked down and saw Mercedes name.
“Hello Beautiful, have you been found?” Kurt said winking at Blaine.

“Kurt, I need your help here, can you please call me back in about two minutes and say that you need me to come over.”

“Is it that bad?” Kurt asked looking concerned.

“Not bad, just weird, and boring. And he keeps asking me about Nick.”

Kurt decided to point out the flaw in her plan. “If I call you, he will want to come too he knows Blaine is here.”

“I’ll just pretend you are Rachel, or my dad. I just need a ring. Shit, he’s coming.” Then the phone went dead.
Kurt looked at Blaine, “It seems as if Mercedes is not enjoying Luke’s company as well as she did Nick’s. I’m supposed to call her to give her an excuse to leave.”

He laughed, “I’m not surprised she didn’t click with him, he is a little uptight most of the time. He’s not as fun loving as Nick.”

Kurt called Mercedes and trying to mimic Rachel said, “As queen of the Glee club, I need you to stop fraternizing with the enemy. Only short dark haired boys are exempt from the ban.”

“Is that so?” Mercedes said in a very serious voice. “I suppose that I should come over then and we can discuss that.”

“No, that will not be necessary, just get yourself home and think of what you have done.”
“Okay, I will be there in ten. Bye” His duty done, he hung up the phone.

The two boys laughed and made their way back up to Kurt’s room. They sat and talked on Kurt’s bed for a few minutes. Blaine was telling him about Wes and David trying to renovate a bike into a ‘broomstick’, when he noticed a far off look in Kurt’s glistening eyes.

“Kurt, what’s wrong?” Blaine asked again.

“Nothing, I just…” Kurt sighed and a tear fell from one of his eyes. “I just.. miss my mom.”He shrugged his shoulders at Blaine.

“Oh Kurt,” Blaine said taking him in his arms. “I am so sorry.”

“She’s been gone almost nine years… my god, she has been dead over half my life.” A sob wracked Kurt’s body.

“Can I ask… I mean…” Apparently, Kurt understood what Blaine could not articulate.

“The anniversary of her death is in a few days and… this time of year is always hard.” Kurt told him, trying to calm his tears. “We were coming home from school and a drunk driver t-boned our car. I saw her die. One minute she was smiling, then she was gone.”

Blaine tried to sooth his boyfriend, not really sure if he was helping or not. Finally Kurt laid down on the bed, and Blaine spooned in behind him. He softly sang into Kurt’s ear, his arms wrapped tightly around Kurt’s waist. As he heard Kurt breath even out and deepen, on the verge of sleep, he whispered, “I love you so much Kurt.”

Kurt murmured, “I love you too Blaine. Thank you.” Then they both drifted off to sleep.

This is how Burt found the boys when he returned home that evening, curled up around each other. Part of him wanted to yell and throw Blaine out of his house. But a larger part of him leaped for joy that his son was so happy, so content. He worried for so long that Kurt would struggle through this world alone. He knew the world could be a harsh place, full of hatred and injustice. He feared Kurt would only see that side of life and never experience the joys and wonder that it held. Burt heard his wife coming up the stairs. He turned to her and held a finger to his lips, which were turned up in a beautiful smile. As she approached he pointed into the room, and slipped an arm around her waist as they watched the two boys sleeping.

“Have you ever seen anything so beautiful?” Burt whispered to Carole.

“They really are cute together aren’t they?” Carole said hugging her husband.

“Should we wake them?” Burt pondered aloud.

Carole chuckled, “No Finn will be home in a minute I will send him up to ‘check on the boys’. Let him do it, I think they will be slightly less embarrassed.”

Kurt was dreaming of sitting with his mom in a small caf�, Blaine beside him. The three of them were chatting and laughing their faces aching with smiles. He hadn’t dreamed of his mother in a couple of years, and the image of her face was so perfect, bringing memories to the surface. He was just reaching over to grab her hand when…
“Hey guys, are you ready…Oh god, sorry” Finn brought the two boys out of their sleep.

“Finn what are you…” Kurt began before being overridden by Finn.

“Sorry, dude, I came up to see if maybe you wanted to watch a movie with me and Rachel, but I see that you are busy.” Finn said awkwardly.

“We were sleeping Finn,” Snapped Kurt, “we weren’t doing anything.”

“Sorry…” Finn mumbled.

“We’ll be down in a minute,” Blaine said calmly, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes.

As soon as Finn left the room, Kurt rolled over to face his boyfriend. “Are you feeling better?” Blaine asked him quietly.

Kurt smiled, his smile seemed to light up the room, “A million times, yes. Thank you.”

“I really didn’t do anything, to be honest I wasn’t sure what to do.” Blaine said smiling sheepishly.

Kurt kissed him gently, “You were here, and you held me, that was what I needed. I love you.”

Blaine stole another kiss before whispering, “I love you more.”

Kurt pushed him away, “We are NOT being that couple. Just know that I love you and everything will be grand.”

They enjoyed dinner and movies on the couch with Finn and Rachel. None of them knew that Burt and Carole were watching them, reveling in watching their children so happy and in love.

By the time Blaine made it home, it was late. He expected his parents to be asleep but his father was sitting on the couch as if he had been waiting for him.

“It’s almost midnight.” His father stated as Blaine walked in the door.

“I know; that is the thing that sucks when your boyfriend lives two hours away, even when you leave at a reasonable time, you get home late.” Blaine said, trying to be polite.

Ben seemed to seethe, “You just think that you can come and go as you please, is that it?”

Blaine stared at his father for a minute, “I have never had a curfew, mainly because you are never around to enforce it. So I am really not sure what you are mad about here. Is it the lateness of it, or the boyfriendness of it?” Blaine felt his face heat up in anger.

Ben Anderson clenched his jaw in rage trying to suppress the words that wanted to shoot out of his mouth. He tried to remember that if he let the words flow he would lose everything, his wife, the majority of the company, even his son who did matter to him. Instead of spewing the words out, his hand raise and came down across his son’s cheek. He stared at the red welt forming where his hand had collided with the shocked boys face. Ben himself was shocked at his actions. Never before had he hit his child. He stared at his hand for a moment, before whispering, “I am so sorry Blaine.”

But Blaine would not be silenced. “You hit me! You have been wanting to do that all week haven’t you. You have been wanting to beat the gay out of me for a long time right? Well guess what dad, it won’t work, the bullies already tried that.” He took a deep breath before continuing looking his father straight in the eyes, “You know, before, I would have done anything to make it so I was straight. My life would have been so much easier. I wouldn’t have gotten picked on or beaten up at school. I could have played football. I could have done anything I wanted to. You would have actually loved me. But now… I love Kurt. He makes everything I have gone through with school, with you, he has made it worth it. So you can make snide remarks, you can try to keep me from seeing him, you can even hit me, beat me within an inch of my life… I won’t care, because I LOVE Kurt. You can’t change that, I love him so damn much, that I can’t even see straight. You can either be happy for me, or just leave me the fuck alone, I am done trying to please you.”

Blaine stood there panting his anger slowly fading as he stared at the shocked face of his father. After a few seconds his father finally spoke, “This is hard for me. I just… I was taught that homosexuality is wrong, it is an abomination. I didn’t want that for you, I wanted you to… I wanted my son to live a right and holy life. I… as long as you weren’t acting on it, I could delude myself into thinking that everything was fine, that you were still living right. I don’t know what to believe anymore. I have never liked questioning my beliefs… God… but now… you are making me question everything I believe in and… honestly Blaine, it scares me. I don’t like to ponder the big questions…” His voice trailed off.

“Dad, just think about this; Is love wrong, is it ever wrong to love someone? If not, then why should it matter what type of body the person I love has? If love is a blessing, then how is mine any different than yours?” With that, Blaine went upstairs to his bedroom, leaving his dad to think.

Wednesday morning, Blaine woke up to find a large hand shaped bruise on his cheek. He remembered his conversation with his father, scared what it might mean for his family. Would his mother really leave her husband? Would his father resort to violence more and more in their relationship? He showered and dressed quickly hoping to make it out of the house before seeing either of his parents. As Blaine crept downstairs the house was silent. Just as he reached the door a voice froze him in place.

“Blaine, I would like to talk to you before you go.” His father said evenly.

Blaine turned around, not meeting his father’s face and followed him into the living room. Once he was seated his father sat on the coffee table in front of him. Blaine couldn’t help think back to Burt during their awkward talk.

“I wanted to tell you again, that I am sorry that I hit you.” Ben Anderson said, trying to meet his sons eyes. “I can’t believe I did that. But looking back, there is a lot that I am not proud of when it comes to you.” Hurt crossed over Blaine’s face, and Ben was quick to clarify his point. “No, it’s not you, I am not proud of me… I… there is no excuse for the way I have treated you. You are my son, and I love you… I love you so much. I remember when I first saw you. You were this tiny little thing, but you just seemed so much bigger than me, I just knew then that you would be greater than I ever was. And it’s true, you are a bigger person than me. You don’t live your life by absolutes set down by others. I just… the things you said last night. They broke me… they broke my heart, but they also made me think. Now I don’t know about this… Kurt, but I know you. And I am going to try to… to be a man and accept this. I can’t promise to be the father you want me to be. But I promise to try.”
Blaine sat there speechless. He honestly couldn’t believe what his father was saying. He had spent so many years trying to come to an acceptance with his father’s denial, with his refusal to understand, that this was something he never thought he would hear coming from his father’s mouth.

“Please say something Blaine. I won’t blame you it you yell at me or hit me… just please say something.” His father said, almost a plea in his voice.

“Why now?” Blaine said, it is the only thing he can think of.

Ben takes a deep breath, “I saw myself losing you. And what you said, it made sense about love being a blessing. I was blessed by you, and I was about to throw it all away… for what? Because of what I was taught. And I started thinking, what had I been taught… that Pluto was a planet… wrong. That it was safe to not wear a seatbelt… wrong. That AIDS was a gay disease… wrong. I have been taught so many things that weren’t right, so why am I holding on to this ONE thing. If I was to be honest with myself, I look at you, and I don’t see an abomination, I don’t see anything wrong… I see my little boy. The same little boy I dreamed all those big dreams for, I just need to make an adjustment to those dreams. So, there is no wife, I can try and imagine it with a…” He took a deep breath again, trying so very hard. “with a husband.” Ben tried to smile at his son, but it came out a little sad.
Blaine sighed, “Thanks dad.”

“Can we have a father son day?” Ben asked hopefully.
Blaine laughed, knowing that this would be the real test if his father was being honest in his apology. “I can’t I promised Kurt I would help him in his father’s shop.” Ben nodded, but didn’t seem angry. “But if you really are trying, you see Kurt’s family is out of town, and usually Fridays they have family dinner at their house. Maybe we could have Kurt over for dinner and to stay the night. Separate rooms of course,” Blaine added hastily.

“Your mother and I were set to fly out Friday night for Dallas,” he saw Blaine’s face fall a millimeter. “but we can reschedule our flight.” Ben thought for a moment, “Kurt doesn’t hate us… does he?” he asked with shame lacing his voice. Ben Anderson was not one who was used to not being liked.

“Kurt… I think he understands. I mean, his father has always tried to be accepting. But I think he understands that for some people it is harder than for others.” Ben nodded. “But you did call him… a faggot, and God, I hate that. You really can’t blame him if he isn’t comfortable around you. But he will try, because he loves me.”

Once the plans were finalized Blaine made his way to Lima to Hummel Tire and Lube. He spent the next three days helping Kurt in the shop. They did everything from changing oil, to a rebuilding an engine for a customer who was restoring an old mustang. Blaine marveled at the way Kurt’s lithe hands moved with such precision, knowing exactly what to do.

On Friday, while balancing and rotating a set of tires on a Ford Flex, Kurt grinned. “Oh, Mercedes called me last night, she has a date tonight.”

Blaine’s grin grew, “Really, with Nick?”

“None other than! Apparently they have been talking on the phone the last few nights. So he asked her out for a proper date. He got tickets to see Forum at the Lima playhouse and he is taking her to dinner beforehand. I helped her pick out an outfit on Skype. She is going to knock his socks off!”

Blaine laughed, “I think she already has. He was texting me the other day, trying to get me to give him tips on wooing her. Really he actually used the word wooing. You have to understand, yes, Nick can be a goofball, but usually he tries to act so deep and serious when we are at school. It is nice that this other side is showing more.”

As Kurt tightened the last lug nut on the tires, he turned to his boyfriend, “Well, that’s it. I talked to Carl he is going to close the shop up so that we can go to my house and get cleaned up before supper. It is almost four now,” Kurt then turned and glared at his love, “I can’t believe I let you talk me into this, and without proper time to get ready either. I mean, yes I have technically met your parents before, but I am trying to block that incident from my memories. You had just be glad that I love you.” Kurt said sternly.

“Every day I am thankful for that fact.” Blaine said pulling Kurt into his arms. “And really this is more a test for them than for you. My dad has been almost a different person these last few days but you do know if I had to choose between you and him… it would be you no contest.” He kissed Kurt, not caring they were in the middle of an Auto shop in Lima, Ohio.

They sat outside the Anderson House, Kurt a nervous wreck. “Are you sure this outfit is alright?” He asked grabbing Blaine’s hand before he could get out of the car.

“You look fantastic, Kurt.” He says with a smile.
Kurt frowns, “I should have worn the blue scarf instead, the red makes me look too pale.”

“The red scarf is perfect, I bought it for you remember. It makes you look fantastic.” Blaine soothed.

Kurt was now whining, “I should have worn a tie instead, they are more conservative. It would have made a better impression.”

Blaine catches Kurt’s panicked face in his hands, “Kurt, I love you. I don’t want you trying to show my parents who you think they want you to be. I fell in love with you, with your scarves and your attitude and everything that makes you unique. I don’t want you to be anything else for them. Alright.” He plants a slow, loving kiss on Kurt’s lips before pulling back waiting for a reply.
Kurt smiles and visibly relaxed. “Alright… I think I’m ready. I love you too Blaine.”

Once they make their way inside the house Blaine’s parents greet them. “Kurt it’s lovely to see you.” His mother said shaking Kurt’s hand.

“Pleased to properly meet you Mrs. Anderson.” Kurt replied politely.

“Please call me Rebecca.” His mother says with a smile.

“Kurt,” Mr. Anderson begins looking just as nervous, “First let me apologize…”

Kurt cuts him off though, “Please Mr. Anderson, let’s forget it ever happened and start off new.”

He seems taken back by this but recovers and says, “Thank you, and please call me Ben.”

The entire meal Blaine was waiting for the explosion, for the illusion to end, but it never happened. They talked about the shop and working on cars. Ben recounted the summer of trying to rebuild the Chevy. Kurt even regales them with stories of being on the Cheerios. Mrs. Anderson was surprised to learn that Kurt was fluent in French.
“Oh, you must go to Paris, the only thing I didn’t like was the language barrier.” She said with a fond smile.
“It is a dream of mine, The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the shopping! Any traveling really.”

“Where have you been?” Mr. Anderson asked trying to stay a part of the conversation.

Kurt thought, “Not many places, we did go to Detroit+9 the summer before my mom died, and we took a bus to Chicago for Nationals with the cheerios. But I have never even been on a plane. But I get to go to New York in a few weeks for Nationals with Glee Club. I am so excited for that. It has always been my dream to live in New York.”

“Oh,” Mr. Anderson said, “You don’t want to stay in Ohio?”
Kurt gave him a sad smile, “No, it hasn’t been easy here. Plus I want to perform, or maybe get into fashion. Those have been my big dreams and I can’t do that here, not really.”

Silence enveloped the table for a minute, before Mr. Anderson spoke again. “I am sure you will love New York.”
Conversation flowed well and soon they were eating dessert talking about Dallas and the clients they were meeting there. Blaine was hardly listening, hardly able to believe that Kurt was sitting, in his house, talking to his parents and they were both enjoying it. As Kurt went up the stairs to go to Blaine’s room to watch a movie, Ben pulled his son aside.

“I like him,” he said plainly. “I still am having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that he is your boyfriend, but he seems like an outstanding young man.”
Blaine smiled, in a little bit of a daze, “He really is dad.”

“Okay, the rules, door stays open, and he sleeps in the guest room.” Blaine turned to walk away, “and Blaine, remember, I am still trying to come to terms with this, so please keep it… decent.”

Blaine wanted to be angry at this, but he found he couldn’t he knew that his father was trying so hard to change. He had done so much in such a short amount of time. He reminded himself of that, so he nodded and went up the stairs to meet Kurt.

They followed the rules, exchanging only a few chaste kisses during the movie, ‘The Lion King’. Blaine walked Kurt to his guest room, and kissed him gently goodnight. He stood there until Kurt closed the door, as he turned around he saw his parents standing at the end of the hall about to make their way to their room. His mother was smiling at him, but his father’s face was red. At first Blaine thought, based on past experience that his father was mad, but when he looked closed he noticed that it was more shock and embarrassment. This realization made Blaine’s face burn as well. He gave his parents a small wave before retreating across the hall to his room. As he was shutting the door, he heard his mom say, “They are just so cute together, don’t you think?”

Blaine paused hoping to catch his father’s reply, “I never thought I would see it… Blaine looks… happy.” He said.

Blaine shut his door, and lay in bed awake for hours thinking. Thinking about the change he had helped bring about in his father. Thinking about Kurt and how lucky he was to have him. And thinking that yes, he was happy. For once in his life Blaine Anderson was completely and totally happy.